Amalfi Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Amalfi Cardigan in MODE at Rowan Mohair Soft

What is Being Made

The Amalfi is a seamless cardigan designed by Quail Studio, available in nine sizes ranging from 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches) chest measurements. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a sophisticated garment with actual chest measurements from 92 cm to 172 cm depending on size selection. The cardigan features a top-down construction method, allowing for easy fitting adjustments during the knitting process.

Construction Techniques

The Amalfi employs a top-down seamless construction technique, which is a modern approach to cardigan knitting that minimizes finishing work. The garment is worked in distinct stages: the body is knitted first from the neck down to the armholes, with the left and right fronts worked individually before being joined under the armhole. Once the fronts are connected, the body continues in one continuous piece down to the hem. This method eliminates the need for seaming, creating clean, professional results. Sleeves are picked up from the body after the main piece is complete and worked downward to the cuff, further reducing finishing requirements.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Amalfi is reverse stockinette stitch, which creates a textured, bumpy surface that showcases the luxurious qualities of the Mohair Soft yarn. Reverse stockinette stitch is worked by purling on the right side (RS) and knitting on the wrong side (WS), creating the characteristic reversed texture. This stitch choice is deliberate, as it allows the soft, fuzzy mohair fiber to display its full visual and tactile appeal. The pattern includes strategic increases at the beginning of rows to shape the garment at the neck, shoulders, and sleeve caps, creating the proper fit and silhouette.

Materials and Specifications

The Amalfi is designed to be worked in Rowan Mohair Soft, a luxurious yarn available in 50-gram balls. Yardage requirements range from 6 balls for the smallest size to 10 balls for the largest sizes. The yarn is photographed in the colorway Winter (shade 10200), though other Mohair Soft colors are available. All needlework is completed using 5.5mm (US 9) needles in multiple configurations: a pair of straight needles for initial cast-on, circular needles measuring at least 100 cm for the body, shorter 40 cm circular needles for sleeve work, and a set of five double-pointed needles for sleeve completion. Additional notions include stitch holders for managing stitches during construction and stitch markers for tracking pattern sections.

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a tension of 16 stitches and 20 rows or rounds over 10 centimeters, measured over reverse stockinette stitch using 5.5mm needles. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly in a top-down garment where sizing depends on accurate stitch counts.